Appealing a decision?
If you disagree with a decision — a benefit refusal, a tax penalty, a fine, or a school place — you usually have a right to challenge it, and there's usually a deadline. Find your situation below.
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PIP, ESA, or Universal Credit decision
1 month
If DWP has refused, reduced, or stopped your benefit, the first step is a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) — asking DWP to look at the decision again before you can appeal to a tribunal. You usually have one month from the date of the decision letter.
Write my Mandatory Reconsideration letter →
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HMRC Self Assessment penalty
30 days
A late-filing or late-payment penalty can be appealed if you have a "reasonable excuse" (e.g. serious illness, bereavement, an HMRC system failure) — being too busy or forgetting isn't accepted. Appeal within 30 days of the penalty notice, online or using form SA370.
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Parking fine (PCN)
14–28 days
Council-issued fines can be challenged within 28 days (14 days keeps any early-payment discount available if the challenge is rejected). Private parking charges (from a company, not the council) follow different rules — usually via POPLA once the company itself has rejected your challenge.
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Council Tax bill or band
Varies
If you disagree with your Council Tax bill, a reduction decision, or your property's tax band, you can usually ask the council to review it first. If you're still unhappy, you can appeal to the Valuation Tribunal.
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School place refusal
20 school days
If your child didn't get an offered place, you have the right to appeal to an independent panel. You'll usually need to submit your appeal within 20 school days of the refusal, explaining why the school is right for your child.
Understand my refusal letter →
Deadlines shown here are general guidance — always check the exact deadline on your own decision letter or on gov.uk before acting. This tool helps you understand letters and what they mean; it does not provide legal advice. For complex cases, contact Citizens Advice or a solicitor.